After another experience this morning of Xena running off to greet THE PEOPLE who appeared at the other end of the empty field, I've come to realise that we probably do need a long line to prevent this self rewarding behaviour. I've searched though old threads and know a lot of you use/have used them for this purpose, but what length should I buy? I've never used one before, presumably we won't tie ourselves in knots if I'm using it in an open area? Dog's only 14 weeks and doesn't stray too far from me...until she spots THE PEOPLE, then I'm forgotten.
I sometimes use a tracking lead, which is 11 metres. But I'd say that'd be a bit long for a puppy. That length requires very active management (gathering it in and letting it out). Maybe try for 5 metres? I'd recommend going to a climbing shop and getting some 6mm (or thereabouts) rope. This is light, extremely strong, and won't give you rope burn. Tie a clip on the end, melt the cut ends with a lit match so they won't fray and you've got a long line
I use a long line, but mine is 15' long and is basically a leash without a handle on the end. But that is probably a bit long for a puppy. Rachel's suggestion is a good one, maybe try that? It does work great as a gentle reminder that after you have given the command (sit, come, etc) and the puppy ignores you and goes running towards THE PEOPLE you can stomp on the line and stop him. And then praise and treat when he comes to you instead.
Great advice, thanks. There are a couple of outdoor shops close by, so I'll do that tomorrow. Surely I won't get into too much of a pickle with 5 metres?! I've been really lucky for the past 2 weeks - school holidays have meant that I've had empty schools to myself and apart from some leash manners work it's been all off-lead. But school's back on Monday so I'm going to have to use sports fields and parks with all the other dog walkers and I'm not liking my off-lead chances.
